General
Kandia Pass Trek (Kalam to Kohistan) – 08 Days (2026-27)
Kandia Pass Trek is a hard and scenic path from Kalam to Kohistan. It starts in Matiltan and continues through rural valleys, meadows, and rocky alpine terrain. Furthermore, the journey provides breathtaking views of Batin Sar, secret lakes, and rugged mountain scenery. As a result, it is perfect for experienced hikers seeking isolation, excitement, and a unique crossing in northern Pakistan.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Treks in Kohistan Valley, as listed in the table below.
Dates & Cost – Kandia Pass Trek
Summers are ideal for the Kandia Pass Trek. The start and end dates in the table below are your dates of arrival and departure from Pakistan. The months listed below are ideal for trekking in the Karakoram region of Pakistan. We have guaranteed departures every year, operating until October. Our dates and costs are listed below.
| Start Dates | End Dates | Price (USD) | Availability | Deposit | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20-Jun-2026 | 27-Jun-2026 | US$ 1,040 | Limited Space | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| 20-Jun-2027 | 27-Jun-2027 | US$ 1,040 | Available | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| Start Dates | End Dates | Price (USD) | Availability | Deposit | Registration |
Holiday Information
- Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
- Airport transfers on the first and last day
- All road transport in Pakistan
- Hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing rooms)
- Trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing tents)
- Hotel meals in Pakistan (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Trekking meals in Pakistan (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Trekking logistics (tents, non-personal equipments and tools)
- Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
- Porters for trekking equipments, kitchen (supplies, tools, equipments, crockery, gas) and personal luggage
- Travel Insurance (recommendations only)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents offered)
- International airfare
- Personal equipments (list provided on registration or request)
- Tips for guides, porters, staff etc
- Miscellaneous (drinks, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
Highlights
Kandia Pass Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Views widen across Kandia Pass highlands.
- Trekkers admire Batin Sar from rugged ridges.
- A blue pass lake sparkles near summits.
- Remote Jabba Meadows offers peaceful mountain camping.
- The scenic Paloga trail climbs through wilderness.
- Matiltan Valley welcomes trekkers with alpine scenery.
- Glaciers surround Matiltan with dramatic mountain views.
- Kandia Valley reveals Kohistan’s untouched beauty.
- Rocky moraine terrain adds thrilling adventure.
- Local Kohistani villages enrich the journey.
Itinerary – Kandia Pass Trek
The itinerary for the trek is listed below.
Day 02: Kalam to Matiltan and Paloga
On this Day
Drive from Kalam to Matiltan, a picturesque town surrounded by glaciers, forests, and towering peaks. Continue to Paloga, which is a significant starting place for the Kandia Pass path. The day is left open for acclimation, weight distribution, and interaction with local guides. Trekkers tour surrounding communities and prepare their kit for the upcoming journey. Before leaving the main valley, the terrain introduces the wild character of Upper Swat.
Day 03: Trek from Paloga to Jabba
On this Day
Begin your walk from Paloga and follow the climbing trail toward Jabba. The trail leads up through grassy hills, occasional trees, and open grazing pastures used by local shepherds. As elevation rises, views broaden to see the adjacent slopes and distant snowy summits. The trail's continual rise and rugged mountain terrain require a steady pace. Reach Jabba campground and relax in the secluded setting, where the road becomes quieter and more distant.
Day 04: Trek to Kandia Pass Base Camp
On this Day
Continue from Jabba to the upper grazing areas below Kandia Pass. As you get closer to the high alpine zone, the terrain becomes steeper and more difficult. Green slopes gradually transition to stony terrain, moraine parts, and cooler mountain environs. The campsite is located below the pass to facilitate acclimatization and safe passage. Trekkers can experience breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, hidden valleys, and the natural environment between Swat and Kohistan.
Day 05: Cross Kandia Pass
On this Day
Cross Kandia Pass, the high point that connects Matiltan in Swat with Kandia Kohistan. The ascent includes loose rocks, steep portions, and cautious maneuvering through exposed terrain. Near the pass, trekkers may notice a little blue lake and views of Batin Sar. After admiring the view, cautiously descend to the Kohistan side. The environment becomes rocky, dry, and sparse as compared to the verdant Swat side, resulting in a stunning contrast.
Day 06: Descend into Kandia Valley
On this Day
Continue down from the top camp to Kandia Valley in Upper Kohistan. Before arriving at lower inhabited regions, the trail passes through rugged slopes, stream crossings, and distant grazing villages. The scenery gradually softens as the path approaches woodlands, fields, and village scenes. This day provides insight into Kohistani mountain living and the valley's remote nature. After finishing the trekking part, take local transportation or remain near a village, depending on road conditions.
Day 07: Drive to Dassu
On this Day
Leave Kandia Valley in a local jeep or other appropriate mode of transportation and head to Dassu or Komila. Floods, landslides, and mountain weather all have an impact on the region's road conditions. The travel takes tiny valley roads before connecting to the main Kohistan highway near the Indus corridor. This day is designed to be practical and adaptable to accommodate delays, road maintenance, and local access concerns. Upon arrival, settle into a budget hotel to rest.
Day 08: Return to Islamabad
On this Day
Continue driving towards Islamabad through the Indus and Hazara regions. Before arriving in the plains, the journey takes you via mountain roads, river valleys, and changing vistas. Depending on the road conditions, the route may go through Besham, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and the Hazara Motorway. The trip culminates in Islamabad, marking the completion of a difficult journey from Kalam in Swat to Kandia Valley in Upper Kohistan.
Why Register Early?
1. Early Bird Discount: The given prices for the holiday are limited-time discount offers and are subject to change. Service providers including (but not limited) to airlines and hotels increase prices in peak-season. Early reservations cost less than peak-season.
2. Limited Flight Seats: Domestic flight seats to the Karakorams and Himalayas are sold out way ahead of time because there are only two daily flights during peak season. Among other things, the deposit is used to book domestic flights for you in advance.
3. Pay Balance after arrival in Pakistan: In these unusual times, we appreciate that paying the final balance for your trip may cause concern. Our policy is to only receive your final balance once you arrive in Pakistan. The only payment before arrival is the deposit.
4. Deposit valid for 3 years: We understand the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic (Covid-19). As part of our relaxed booking conditions following Covid-19, deposits are valid for 2 years.
6. Pay Minimum Deposit: The deposits for the holiday are also early-bird discounts and automatically change accordingly:
- 1st October: USD 190
- 1st November: USD 290
- 1st January: USD 350
- 15th February: USD 400
- 1st March: USD 450
- 1st May: USD 490
Note: The same dates above apply to next season's deposits.
Refund Policy for All
Deposit: Once paid, the deposit is non-refundable (but valid for 2 years) as it will be spent on making in-country arrangements.
Balance: Pay the balance only after arrival in Pakistan on the first day. Payment guidelines will be shared timely.
Currency
All international travelers can pay in US Dollars (USD) or equivalent in Euros (EUR) or Pound Sterling (GBP). Pakistani travelers are charged the equivalent in Pakistani Rupees (PKR).
Single Supplement
Separate hotel rooms (single supplement) will cost an additional USD 290. This includes all hotel nights. This payment should be made with the balance upon arrival.
Separate tents (single tent) will cost an additional USD 180. This includes the cost of additional porterage. This payment should also be made with the balance in Pakistan.
As Featured In:
Map
Overview – Kandia Pass Trek
The Kandia Pass Trek (Kalam to Kohistan) is a distant trek across Swat and Upper Kohistan. The trek starts near Kalam and continues to Matiltan, a picturesque gateway with glaciers, woods, and peaks. After that, the trail climbs through Paloga, Jabba, and wild grazing regions until reaching Kandia Pass. Furthermore, this path provides a unique passage between two spectacular mountain ranges. Trekkers can explore alpine meadows, rocky slopes, secret lakes, and panoramic views of Batin Sar. As a result, the walk is suited for experienced hikers seeking seclusion and unspoiled Himalayan splendor. It also appeals to travelers who seek less-traveled routes versus congested commercial trails.
Beyond the pass, the environment rapidly changes as the road descends into Kandia Valley. Unlike the greener Swat side, Kohistan feels rocky, quiet, and completely unspoiled. Kandia Valley is also recognized for its high pastures, glaciers, and significant tourism potential. However, facilities remain limited, so careful planning is required. The Kandia Pass Trek is ideal for fit hikers with camping experience. Furthermore, guides, porters, food supplies, and flexible logistics are strongly advised. Overall, this hike mixes wilderness, culture, and adventure into one unforgettable journey. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a challenging Kalam to Kohistan trekking route. As a result, it is still one of northern Pakistan’s most rewarding exploring excursions.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
